Tent footprints, also known as ground cloths, or groundsheets, are simply a barrier between your tent bottom and the ground. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, and weights. A tent footprint can be made by yourself, be an object repurposed as a footprint, or you can purchase an item specifically designed to be a tent footprint.

The purpose of a tent footprint is to protect the bottom of your tent from abrasion. As you move around inside your tent, the bottom will be creating a lot of friction between, the dirt, snow, rock, wood, or whatever material you are camping on. This friction can cause damage to waterproof layers, create holes, and simply wear out your tent faster.

The simple answer is no. You don’t need a tent footprint. However, having a layer between your tent and the ground can provide you with a few benefits, and increase the longevity of your tent.

If you are buying a legitimate footprint, you can buy them for as little as $10, and upwards of $50. If you are making your own, it could be just a few dollars. We don’t recommend spending much on a footprint. Even serious ultralight campers don’t need to dish out much to get the right gear. If your tent manufacturer makes one for your tent, only make the purchase if it is reasonable.

A tent footprint under $20 is worth it to add a layer of protection to your expensive tent.  You can grab some tent footprints on Amazon or other retailers like REI easily.

It may seem counterintuitive, but tent footprints shouldn’t be larger than your tent size. Try and get them the same size of your tent or slightly smaller. You don’t want an extended piece of waterproof cloth as this acts as a catch for rainwater that can pool under your tent. Purchase a footprint the size of your tent.

Don’t worry too much, if your tent footprint is too large, you can always fold it. It also isn’t a worry if there won’t be precipitation.

You can purchase tent footprints at various retailers. Here are a few:

Tent footprints aren’t fancy or expensive. Simply get one for the size of your tent that is lightweight.

Most tent footprints fall within 3-7 ounces. Tarps and other alternatives may be either heavier or lighter. For backpackers, you should elect for lighter tent footprints. If your footprint is more than 7 ounces, you probably unnecessarily adding weight to your pack.

Of course! It is really easy. Take any material of your choice, and cut it to the necessary size for your tent. This should be the same size as your tent bottom. Then you are done! Here are common DIY materials:

The above, we stated multiple ways to create your own. The most common alternative is to just grab a tarp, or don’t use a footprint at all. The most important thing is placing your tent in an area that has good runoff and won’t pool water. You’ll want some type of barrier if you are on abrasive surfaces like rock, dirt, sand or snow.

Absolutely not. In fact, many of the manufacturers make footprints with clips and buckles that basically just add weight and size to your pack. Your footprint goes under your tent – there is pretty much no need to buckle it in.

Our first piece of advice would be to not overthink it. As stated above, there are many options for your groundsheet, and all of them work just fine. Consider your needs and wants. If you are price sensitive, make your own with a $2 plastic table cloth or plastic sheet. A tarp from your local store works great, just remember that tarps are large and heavy – so not ideal for backpacking.

If you want to save time, order a $10-15 option off of Amazon.

If you want it to match your tent – get the one from your tent manufacturer.

If you love to just have the best gear and name brands, by all means, go ahead and get whatever option you want!

The most common materials from manufacturers are coated polyester and nylon fabrics that are lightweight, durable, and waterproof.

There isn’t too much to explain here, but here is a step by step guide.

Step 1 – take out your tent footprint and unpack it
Step 2 – lay your tent footprint on the ground with the proper orientation
Step 3 – set up your tent on top of the footprint
Step 4 – If your footprint has buckles, or clips, or loops – feel free to connect to the tent or stake into the ground.

Did we miss something? Let us know!